While it is not true for everyone, many students earning an associate degree in Theatre Studies hope to transfer to another program eventually. Whether they are hoping to transfer to another degree program at BYU-Idaho or to another university entirely, students usually have questions about how to transfer their associate degree.
To a BYU-Idaho Program
Transferring to another program at BYUI is a fairly simple process. While meeting with Academic Advising is recommended, most students can change their declared program in their I-Plan. However, there are a few different circumstances you may find yourself in when trying to move from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree.
If you are hoping to go from an associate degree in Theatre Studies to one of the bachelor’s degrees in the Theatre program, changing programs through I-Plan should work for you. It is recommended to change to the bachelor’s program before applying to graduate from the associate program. This way, you will not need to reapply for a bachelor’s degree.
If you want to transfer to another major entirely, it is recommended that you consult academic advising. There may be credits earned in an associate degree in Theatre Studies that may not apply to your new major program. The Advising Center can help you navigate the best course of action in choosing a bachelor’s program.
To Another University
While each university has their own transfer policies and credit acceptance requirements, there are some general transfer procedures that apply to most schools.
For example, most universities will accept a transfer associate degree. Some, however, may have rules about what kind of associate degree is accepted and which credits will be waived. For instance, BYU Provo will waive a majority of general education requirements to associate degree transfer students, but they will still require courses like American Heritage or classes that fulfill their religion credits.
Some good things to keep in mind when transferring to other universities include:
- How transfer-friendly is the school? Some universities accept more credits than others. Be sure to check which credits you are transferring will count as credits toward your major compared to elective credits.
- The accreditation of your associate degree. Depending on the university, you may be required to prove the accreditation of your school and major program. BYUI is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). There are also major programs at BYUI that are accredited, like Music and Nursing.
- The similarity of programs. It is likely that, depending on the Theatre program, there will be credits from your associate degree that do not transfer as “major credits.” Major credits are non-general courses that are required to earn your degree. Some courses, especially more specific courses, may transfer only as elective credits.
- The completion of your associate degree. It is much easier to transfer a completed associate degree than an incomplete associate degree. Many programs will waive general education requirements when they receive a completed associate degree. However, when they receive an incomplete degree, transfer departments may be required to assess each class individually. If this is the case for you, it is recommended to check your future school’s course transferability list.
To an Acting Program
Acting programs, especially competitive ones, may not require college experience to apply. However, they do require portfolios, letters of recommendation, and refined talent. Those things are usually gained in a degree program.
Earning an associate degree before transferring to the acting program of your dreams can be a great way to prepare for applications and auditions. While, like traditional university programs, acting programs may not transfer all of your credits directly, they may accept general education and elective credits. Be sure to contact your program’s transfer office for more specific information.
Conclusion
Transferring your associate degree in Theatre Studies is completely possible. While each university’s transfer policies are unique, most will honor the hard work and time you have put into earning your degree. (Rewrite this)
Sources:
Will My Associate Degree Transfer to Any College? | Franklin.edu
Transfer Credit Policy | BYU
Accreditation | Executive Strategy And Planning | BYU-Idaho
Acting (BFA) - Academy of Art University
Frequently Asked Questions - David Geffen School of Drama at Yale